In this episode, we dive into the lessons he learned in athletics. Rodney made the decision to go to the United States Air Force Academy because they had a solid football program. He set a goal to become an All-American, and when a knee injury ended his pursuit of playing on the gridiron, he went on to achieve All-American status in something else—mock trial.
Listeners will take away a big bag full of useful business nuggets such as:
“To me, building a great team starts with trust,” Rodney said. “Many teams fail to develop that. They go towards activity and action without recognizing that beneath any action there is a person who has to achieve the action.”
You will learn:
"Don is one of the best storytellers I’ve ever met. I’ve known him for a long time and every time we talk I walk away wiser and more inspired. He is the best in the business at teaching you a skill – storytelling – that will last you a lifetime.”
“The ability for athletes to get hired is carried on through you because you are putting out the message that lessons learned from sports are important in life. It is embedded in this podcast, what you’re doing is significant.”
We speak the same language. I am inspired by the stories you tell, the people you have met, and the things you’ve done. Those of us that are competitors like to follow others that have been down that journey, so it is always fun talking to you!”
“Many of the leaders I have worked with were excellent athletes, and I think there is a direct correlation. You’re one of the few people that really has pursued this study, Don. Keep up the great work. What you are doing really makes a difference.”
“Don, you have mastered the skill of interviewing and asking great questions. That is a great skill all leaders need in order to understand their team members’ thought processes.”
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